If you have time, please submit a comment on rather you oppose or approve union employees being paid through Unemployment Insurance program when on strike.
This link will connect you with Senate Bill 916 for submitting comments.
https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB916
By selecting Testimony, you can read many of the comments to oppose or support.
By selecting Submit Testimony, you can fill out the form.
By selecting Text Testimony, a box will open for your comment.
Here is a copy of one of the testimonies that a resident of Oregon submitted.
I oppose the Oregon Senate Bill 916 that would allow workers to receive unemployment benefits during a labor dispute (strike or lockout). Below are two reasonable arguments against it:
- Undermines the Purpose of Unemployment Insurance (UI)
Unemployment benefits are meant for involuntary job loss, such as layoffs, not for those who choose to stop working due to a strike.
A labor dispute is a voluntary decision by workers (or a strategic move by a union), unlike economic downturns or company closures.
Allowing benefits for striking workers blurs the line between true unemployment and labor activism, potentially setting a precedent for further expansions of UI eligibility beyond its intended purpose
- Increases the Financial Burden on Businesses and the State UI Fund
UI benefits are funded through employer payroll taxes, meaning businesses will bear the cost of financing worker strikes.
Oregon’s UI trust fund is meant to support laid-off workers—allowing striking workers to collect benefits could drain resources and require higher employer taxes to replenish the fund.
This could disincentivize business investment in Oregon, as companies may see it as an increased cost of doing business in the state.
Respectfully submitted, (add your name).